Elections in Sierra Leone a test of political maturity

The general elections in Sierra Leone scheduled for 17 November this year will be a test of political maturity for the leadership of the West African country.

That's what the UN Secretary-General's Executive Representative in the country, Jens Anders Toyberg-Frandzen, told the Security Council on Tuesday.

Mr. Toyberg-Frandzen said that Sierra Leone is making steady progress in rebuilding after a civil war that ended in 2002.

He said there has been no incidence of political violence in the past six months but as the elections draw closer, the tensions are expected to rise.

"The successful conduct of elections will demonstrate the maturity of Sierra Leone's political leadership and institutions, as well as consolidation of the democratic process in the country. Once the elections are conducted, the immediate focus will be on addressing any political post-elections issues through dialogue and on ensuring a smooth transition of the elected government."